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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 10:1–5
Key Verse: “For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:3–4)
Non-stop communication with far-away friends, through Snapchat, Pintrest, and other social media, keeps us from investing in nearby, healthy relationships that can steer us onto a godly path. Games with amped-up violence may make us feel strong and in control, but they can slowly steal our peace. Certain videos make us feel desirable for a time, but can leave us with an addiction.
All these act as spiritual IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) that often leave us feeling lonelier. These IEDs blow up on us and cause us to forget that we are God’s beloved children. We become imprisoned by our thoughts, guarded by anger, guilt, and shame. But Paul reminds us that we can regain control of our thoughts and emotions if we use the tools God has given us and submit all our desires to Christ.
Consider
How do I fill my time when I am bored, feeling left-out, or lonely?
Do I find it hard to think positive, healthy thoughts about myself, my location, my family, and other people (including people I am sexually attracted to)?
What is my expectation for what God will do and what I will do when asking for God’s help?
Practice
Make a positivity jar! Write down good, healthy, God-honoring options for when you feel lonely, (i.e. paint nails, ride bike, read, lift weights). Now write down at least ten things you like about yourself and characteristics you would like to develop. Cut out each word and put them in the jar. Whenever you feel lonely, pull out one or five!
Chat
God, you created my brain to control my body. I need your help to offer every function of my brain to you—the movement of my body, my desires, my emotions, and each and every thought. I love you and want to please you, so help me develop godly, human relationships. Please provide good friends for me who will help in the lonely times. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.
